Caps & gowns are available at the UNC Charlotte Bookstore each semester starting with the first day of the Commencement Fair up until the day of commencement.

What size gown do I need and when do I get measured for it?

Gowns are sized by height so there is no need for special measuring; they tend to run short so if you prefer a longer look, select a gown that is an inch or two longer than your actual height. Caps are one size fit all.

How much will my cap and gown cost?

There is no added expense for your cap and gown. The graduation fee covers the cost of your cap and gown and diploma.

What color are UNC Charlotte caps and gowns?

Green.

I am a candidate for a graduate degree. Where do I get my hood?

Hoods for master's candidates are available at the bookstore. The color of your hood is associated with the degree you have earned. Master's degree candidates wear their hoods to the ceremony.

Hoods for Ph.D. candidates are part of the graduation fee. Doctoral candidates do not have to pick hoods up at the bookstore: the hoods will be brought directly to the ceremony. Some doctoral candidates who will need regalia on a regular basis in their professional career may opt to purchase custom gowns, hoods, and tams. (See Faculty Regalia.)

Are hoods for masters degrees included in the graduation fee?

YES, a hood is included with cap and gown for those receiving master's degrees. There are also hoods available for purchase for those who desire to "upgrade" to a higher quality hood.

I'm a member of an organization/honor society; where do I get my honor cords and/or stole?

Honor cords and stoles are available through the organization that they represent. Please contact your organizational representative for specific details.

Faculty Regalia

Can faculty order their regalia from the Bookstore?

Yes, the bookstore is proud to assist faculty with their regalia needs by either ordering custom regalia or by renting regalia for specific ceremonies. Rental regalia can be ordered online starting the first day of Commencement Fair. The last day to order online is one month before Commencement.

How much is the rental regalia and what does it entail?

Rental regalia includes a black on black doctoral gown, a generic doctoral hood, and a mortar board with a gold tassel. If time permits, it is sometimes possible to rent regalia with one's associated degree colors. If this is your preference, the bookstore will need to know no later than two weeks before Commencement. Please contact the Bookstore for the current rental information.

How do I order custom regalia?

Custom regalia can be ordered from the Bookstore and requires a number of style and price decisions, as well as an inventory of various physical measurements. The cost for custom regalia can be as little as $375, and can go up to $1,100, depending on fabric and customization. Arrival can be expected in 6 – 8 weeks. Custom gowns are not returnable and (regrettably) faculty discounts at the Bookstore do not apply.

Commencement Fair

When is the Commencement Fair?

Commencement fairs at UNC Charlotte are usually sponsored by the Bookstore in October (Fall Semester) and March (Spring Semester); please refer to the Bookstore Calendar or contact store management for specific dates pertaining to the current semester.

What else happens at the Commencement Fair besides picking up my cap and gown?

Representatives from Herff Jones and Balfour/Artcarved will be present to assist graduating students in ordering invitations and selecting a class ring, pendant, or pin, and make connections with the Alumni Association.

I've waited too late to order personalized invitations, what can I do?

The Bookstore carries generic invitations that can be purchased in packs of 10. These are identical to the personalized invitations – including the double envelope – save for the omission of your name and the time of the ceremony. Enclosure cards on which to inscribe this missing information are also available.